BOURTON Kebab Van is celebrating after making it to the British Kebab Awards semi-finals.

The awards, run with Just Eat and supported by the Kebab Alliance – the sector’s trade body – aim to recognise and champion kebab takeaways and restaurants across the country.

Now in their ninth year, the 2021 applications have attracted a record number of entries.

Longlisted businesses will compete against each other and a shortlist of 10 businesses for each category will be announced by the beginning of July.

The semi-finalists all have a chance to secure one of 18 awards at a ceremony at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge Hotel, on October 26.

More than 1,200 guests, including Cabinet ministers and Shadow Cabinet members, usually attend the VIP-studded ceremony.

Judges of the renowned awards this year will include Conservative Minister Nadhim Zahawi, Labour MP Carolyn Harris, assistant general secretary of Unite Steve Turner, SNP MP Angus Brendan MacNeil, Conservative MP David Warburton and David Galman from Galliard Homes.

Cotswolds MP, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has congratulated owner of Bourton Kebab Van, Osman Akdeniz, on being long listed for the prestigious award.

Sir Geoffrey said: “I am delighted that Bourton Kebab Van has been long-listed for the British Kebab Awards, which highlights their contribution to the kebab industry in the UK.

“It was a pleasure to meet Osman at his kebab van and try some of his food.

“He is well liked by the local community and provides a very good service.

“I congratulate him for his success so far and wish him good luck in the semi-finals, I will be supporting his bid and hope he wins.”